Modric to leave Real Madrid after Club World Cup: 'I leave with a full heart'

At 39 years old and after 13 unforgettable seasons at Real Madrid which included a Ballon d’Or, multiple Champions League triumphs, and countless iconic moments Luka Modric has officially announced his departure from the club.

The Croatian legend will say goodbye to the Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday (3:15 PM local time), in the final LaLiga matchday of the season against Real Sociedad, before completing his last mission with Los Blancos at the upcoming Club World Cup.

The announcement marks the end of an era for one of the most respected midfielders of his generation and a player who has become synonymous with Real Madrid’s modern dominance. Modric’s impact at the club has been both monumental and consistent, ever since he arrived in the Spanish capital from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2012.

His early days at Madrid were not without difficulty he was even voted LaLiga’s “worst signing” in a media poll after his debut season. But from there, Modric defied expectations and evolved into the heartbeat of the team. His ability to dictate tempo, break lines with passes, and deliver in the biggest matches quickly made him indispensable. His partnership in midfield with Toni Kroos and Casemiro became one of the most iconic trios in football history, central to Real Madrid’s incredible run of five Champions League titles between 2014 and 2022.

In total, Modric has lifted 25 trophies during his time in the Spanish capital five Champions League titles, five Club World Cups, four UEFA Super Cups, three LaLiga titles, two Copas del Rey, and six Spanish Super Cups. Each of these triumphs has been part of a golden generation that has reshaped Real Madrid’s modern legacy, with Modric at the center of it all.

This season alone, despite his age, Modric has continued to contribute significantly on the pitch. With four goals and nine assists in 56 appearances across all competitions, he has proven that even in the twilight of his career, his class remains intact. His technique, vision, and intelligence have not diminished if anything, they’ve adapted, allowing him to remain effective even with younger talents like Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, and Aurélien Tchouaméni rising through the ranks.

His farewell is especially poignant because of what he represents beyond numbers. Modric is seen as a model of professionalism and humility a quiet leader, admired for his tireless work ethic, football IQ, and dedication to the badge. For Madrid fans, he has been more than just a world-class player he has been an emblem of loyalty, elegance, and excellence.

His departure comes as Real Madrid continues to reshape its squad for the future, but his legacy will linger long after he plays his final minutes. Modric is expected to be part of the squad for the expanded Club World Cup in the United States, potentially lifting one last piece of silverware his sixth Club World Cup before stepping away from the club stage.

In an emotional message published on his social media and shared by the club, Modric expressed his gratitude and reflected on his journey. He thanked the president, Florentino Pérez, his coaches, teammates, and the fans, whom he described as the most meaningful part of his time at Real Madrid.

"The moment I never wanted to come has arrived," Modric wrote. "I came in 2012 dreaming of wearing the shirt of the best club in the world. I leave full of pride, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. What I’ll carry with me most is the love from the fans a bond I’ll never forget."

The Croatian playmaker’s final game at the Bernabéu will undoubtedly be a highly emotional occasion, as thousands of fans bid farewell to one of the most iconic figures in the club’s history. Chants of “Luka, Luka, Luka” will surely echo through the stands, in celebration of a player who gave everything to Real Madrid and became a legend in return.

Even though his chapter as a Real Madrid player is closing, Modric made it clear in his farewell that his bond with the club will never end.
"Even after the Club World Cup, when I no longer wear this shirt on the pitch, I will always be a Madridista. We’ll see each other again. Real Madrid will always be my home. For life."